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Fernando charts course for lasting legacy in third term

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CITY OF MALOLOS – Governor Daniel R. Fernando isn’t just serving another term; he’s crafting a legacy.

With his third term now underway, the governor has laid out a clear vision, focusing on five pivotal areas designed to ensure his past efforts have a lasting impact on Bulacan’s future.

During the Inaugural Session of the 12th Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro yesterday at the Benigno Aquino, Jr. Session Hall, Fernando delivered his State of the Province Address where he outlined his administration’s key priorities: health, education, livelihood and development, environment and waste management, and flood control.

“Sa pagtatapos ng aking panunungkulan, ang adhikain ko ay simple ngunit makapangyarihan: makita ng bawat Bulakenyo na matatag na nakatayo sa sariling paa, may disenteng hanapbuhay, may pagkain sa hapag, ligtas, masaya, at may dignidad ang pamumuhay,” the governor said.

He elaborated his plans, which include modernizing the Bulacan Medical Center and district hospitals  to deliver innovative health services; elevate standards through scholarships spanning from junior high to board exams, tackle the issue of job mismatch, equip students with diverse skills, and establish both the Bulacan Sports Academy for budding athletes and Go-Koop College for aspiring young entrepreneurs.

“Ang Bulacan ay handa ng makipagsabayan sa makabagong panahon. Katuwang natin ang pribadong sektor sa pagpapatupad ng mga proyekto na magbubukas ng oportunidad sa ating mga mamamayan,” he added.

Fernando highlighted several “big-ticket” projects set to transform the province, such as the Bulacan Mega City Project, Technohub and Innovation Center, Farmers’ Productivity Center, and the Animal Breeding and Multiplier Farm.

He also acknowledged the significant national undertakings impacting Bulacan, including the North-South Commuter Railway, MRT-7, and the New Manila International Airport.

The People’s Governor also didn’t shy away from addressing the province’s persistent waste problem, calling it a root cause of disease, pollution, and, notably, flooding.

“Kasado na rin po ang plano nating first Bulacan Environment Summit ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan upang magkaroon tayo ng malawakang pagkilos laban sa problema natin sa basura at pagbaha sa Bulacan,” the governor announced.

Beyond his forward-looking agenda, the governor also took the opportunity to commendably report on the top accomplishments of his past two terms, aligning with his People’s Agenda 10.

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Villanueva to BulSU grads: Embrace AI, automation through lifelong learning as demands of job market shifts

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Senator Joel Villanueva encouraged graduates of Bulacan State University (BulSU) to continue learning as new jobs emerge and existing roles evolve due to technological advancements.

Speaking to some 873 graduates from BulSU’s College of Information Communications Technology and College of Science, and their respective faculty members, Villanueva explained that automation through artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics will create a new jobs landscape for them.

“Graduation is only the beginning for you. Never stop learning because life never stops teaching,” Villanueva said in his keynote speech. “What you learned here at BulSU is ‘Volume 1.’ What you will learn in the real world is ‘Volume 2.’ Reskilling, upskilling, and new skilling are the key.”

While an estimated 85 million jobs might be rendered obsolete in 2025 globally because of automation, about 97 million new roles are projected to emerge because of new technologies, Villanueva pointed out, citing data from the World Economic Forum (WEF).

“By 2029 in the Philippines, there will be job growth most significantly for Data Analysts and Scientists with about 95% net growth, and AI and Machine Learning Specialists with around 60% net growth,” the lawmaker continued.

Villanueva said he pushed for a legislation that will serve as framework for lifelong learning to ensure that Filipino workers remain sharp to become highly competitive in the labor market. Senate Bill 2960 which he authored and sponsored, is awaiting the signature of the President.

He reiterated the importance of developing credentials, especially for universities to develop proofs of so-called “microcompetencies, microcredentials, or digital certificates.”

“Hindi po ito imposible o unrealistic dahil ginagawa na po ito sa maraming bansa. The laws that we have passed will serve as building blocks of our vision for Philippine education in the age of AI – a Supermarket of Competencies,” Villanueva said.

Villanueva underscored the importance of education for Bulakenyos, recalling an incident in the province’s history where 20 young women from Malolos petitioned before Governor General Valeriano Weyler to put up a night school so they could study Spanish.

“Noon, kailangang manikluhod at makipaglaban ng mga Bulakenyo para matuto at makapag-aral. Ngayon, malawak na ang access n’yo sa education at training,” he said. “Graduates, tulad ng pinakita ng 20 kababaihan ng Malolos noon, manatili rin sana kayong uhaw at gutom sa kaalaman. Stay hungry for knowledge.”

Through the Doktor para sa Bayan law which he principally sponsored and authored in the 18th Congress, Villanueva helped establish the first publicly-funded School of Medicine in Region III at BulSU. He has likewise facilitated the construction of several additional facilities in BulSU to support the growing needs of the state university.

The lawmaker appealed to graduates to use their knowledge and skills they gained in college to shine a light on others.

“Graduates, ang inyong edukasyon ay hindi lang para sa inyong sarili, kundi para sa inyong pamilya, kapwa, at higit sa lahat sa ating minamahal na bayan,” Villanueva said.

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Madlum hanging bridge, now made of steel

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The undergoing completion of the now steel-made Madlum hanging bridge in Barangay Sibul, San Miguel town. Photo by Anton Luis Catindig
The undergoing completion of the now steel-made Madlum hanging bridge in Barangay Sibul, San Miguel town. Photo by Anton Luis Catindig 

SAN MIGUEL, Bulacan—The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) upgraded the Madlum hanging bridge in this town after typhoons in 2022 destroyed the structure. 

Originally, residents including children going to schools braved crossing the river in Barangay Sibul in this town through a hanged cable wires above the river. 

But few years after the 2014 infamous Madlum Tragedy where seven Bulacan State University (BSU) students drowned because of flashfloods while in a tour in Madlum Cave, the government constructed a sturdy wooden-made hanging bridge. 

Barangay Councilor Beverly Ligon said the wooden structure had remained safe for everyone including among the tourists who come to the place often. 

However, the flashflood in 2022 brought by typhoon Karding destroyed the bridge. 

The level of water in the river reached the hanging bridge and wrecked it. At least five rescuers from the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) were killed while in a rescue mission during that flashflood in typhoon Karding. 

NAPOLCOM brings police entrance and promotion exams closer to CL applicants

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The National Police Commission Regional Office 3 announces the conduct of the Philippine National Police Entrance and Promotional Examinations on October 19, 2025, in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga and Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija—bringing testing opportunities closer to Central Luzon applicants. Registration through the NAPOLCOM online scheduling system runs from August 18 to 22, 2025, with application processing scheduled from August 19 to September 19, 2025, at the NAPOLCOM Regional Office in Pampanga. (NAPOLCOM Central Luzon)

By Camille N. Gavino

The National Police Commission Regional Office 3 announces the conduct of the Philippine National Police Entrance and Promotional Examinations on October 19, 2025, in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga and Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija—bringing testing opportunities closer to Central Luzon applicants. Registration through the NAPOLCOM online scheduling system runs from August 18 to 22, 2025, with application processing scheduled from August 19 to September 19, 2025, at the NAPOLCOM Regional Office in Pampanga. (NAPOLCOM Central Luzon)

CABANATUAN CITY (PIA) — The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) is bringing the Police Entrance and Promotional Examinations closer to Central Luzon applicants to make the application process more accessible.

The regular paper-and-pencil Philippine National Police (PNP) entrance and promotional examinations will be conducted on October 19, 2025, across 35 testing centers nationwide, including two key sites in the region.

It includes Pampanga High School in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, and the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology Sumacab Campus in Cabanatuan City.

The PNP Entrance Examination is open to all Filipino citizens who are not less than 21 years old or more than 30 years old and who hold a bachelor’s degree.

On the other hand, the promotional examination is for in-service police officers 1st class to 4th class seeking career advancement within the PNP.

NAPOLCOM Regional Director Evangeline Almirante reminded that aspiring examinees should register to the online scheduling system before processing their application through the NAPOLCOM website, www.napolcom.gov.ph.

“Only applicants with confirmed scheduled appointment and complete requirements shall be accepted for processing,” Almirante added.

Registration for the online scheduling system will be available from August 18 to August 22, 2025.

Interested applicants for the PNP entrance exam need to submit a copy of the notice generated after registering online, two colored recent passport-size photos, one valid government-issued ID with applicant’s date of birth, photocopy or certified xerox copy of any of the transcript of records, diploma and certificate of graduation, one legal-size window envelope with mailing stamp and the exam fee of four hundred pesos. 

For promotional exams, the requirements are copy of the notice generated after registering online, two colored recent passport-size photos, one legal-size window envelope with a mailing stamp, and an examination fee.

Almirante urges all interested applicants to register early, ensure the completeness of their requirements, and monitor the official Facebook page NAPOLCOM Central Luzon for updates.

The evaluation and processing of applications will be conducted from August 19, 2025, to September 19, 2025, at the NAPOLCOM Regional Office 3, Diosdado Macapagal Government Center, Maimpis, City of San Fernando, Pampanga. (CLJD/CNG, PIA 3-Nueva Ecija)

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CARD SME Bank plants trees in Cagayan de Oro

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CARD SME Bank staff from the CDO Branch, along with the Cagayan de Oro City CENRO Office and Local Government Unit, unite with a shared goal of promoting sustainability through a tree-planting activity.
CARD SME Bank staff from the CDO Branch, along with the Cagayan de Oro City CENRO Office and Local Government Unit, unite with a shared goal of promoting sustainability through a tree-planting activity.

CARD SME Bank, Inc., a thrift bank under the CARD MRI, in collaboration with the Cagayan de Oro City CENRO Office and the Local Government Unit, conducted a tree-planting activity on July 12, 2025.

As part of its commitment to environmental protection, community engagement, and sustainability, CARD SME Bank planted 200 teakwood tree seedlings in Barangay Camarahan, Cagayan de Oro. Known for its strength, durability, and water resistance, teakwood is a valuable species used widely in reforestation efforts and sustainable timber production.

“This activity reflects our belief that simple and practical actions like planting trees, cleaning our surroundings, and educating others about proper waste disposal are small steps that make a big impact—for our communities today and for future generations,” said Mr. Julius Adrian Alip, President of CARD SME Bank. “By planting trees today, we are investing not only in the future of our communities but also in the sustainability and preservation of our planet.”

This initiative is part of CARD SME Bank’s broader mission to uplift communities while promoting sustainable practices that safeguard natural resources for future generations.

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Alsons Power Celebrates 33 years with Nationwide Environmental and Community Initiatives

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In celebration of its 33rd year in the power industry, Alsons Power Group, the power generation arm of the Mindanao-based Alcantara Group, launched its first-ever “We Power with Care Day,” on July 11, marked by simultaneous environmental and community development activities across the country, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.

In celebration of its 33rd year in the power industry, Alsons Power Group, the power generation arm of the Mindanao-based Alcantara Group, launched its first-ever “We Power with Care Day,” on July 11, marked by simultaneous environmental and community development activities across the country, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to sustainability and inclusive growth.

The We Power with Care Day mobilized more than 600 individuals, including Alsons Power employees, community members, and local government partners across key sites in Bohol, Iligan, Makati, Negros Occidental, Sarangani, and Zamboanga. The participants took part in tree planting, river and coastal cleanups, and school support programs, bringing to life Group’s brand promise, “We Power with Care.”

“This isn’t just an anniversary event. It is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. It’s our way of giving back to the communities we serve and bringing to life our brand promise, We Power with Care,” said Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara, Chief Executive Officer of Alsons Power, during the Kick-off program of the We Power with Care Day.

From Luzon to Mindanao, various activities took place across the Alsons Power’s project and business units:

·       In Zamboanga City, Western Mindanao Power Corporation (WMPC) led a coastal cleanup in Sitio Bukana Mala, Bolong, collecting 25 sacks of non-biodegradable wastes, weighing around 125 kilos, with the help of over 75 employees and community volunteers.

·       In Murcia, Negros Occidental, Bago Hydropower Resources Corporation (BHRC) organized a river cleanup in Sitio Balasyang, removing 900 kilos of waste and engaging around 50 local stakeholders.

·       Mapalad Power Corporation (MPC) in Ubay, Bohol planted 150 tree seedlings within the plant premises with the help of 100 employees and volunteers from the community and government, supporting reforestation and biodiversity conservation in the area.

·       In Iligan, Alsons Power Supply Corporation (APSC) and MPC Iligan spearheaded a coastal cleanup at Centennial Park in Dalipuga, collecting 110 kilos of recycleable and non-biodegradable waste and mobilizing over 75 volunteers.

·       Siayan-Zambo River Power Corporation (SZPC) conducted a tree planting activity in Barangay Poblacion, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte, planting 120 narra trees with the support of 100 volunteers.

·       The Group’s Makati team helped green La Mesa Eco Park through a tree planting activity involving over 32 employees and 150 seedlings.

·       In Sarangani, Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) and Siguil Hydro Corporation brought the spirit of “We Power with Care” to schools by turning over Smart TVs, school bags, and supplies to more than 500 students from nearby schools. A special book reading session was also held. Earlier that day, employees from both plants also participated in a tree planting activity within the SEC premises as part of the celebration.

Aside from education and environmental activities, Alsons Power also turned over the community share of the Municipality of Maasim and Barangay Kamanga from the SEC, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. The community share forms part of the Department of Energy’s Energy Regulation ER 1-94 program, which requires energy companies to allocate funds to support local communities. These funds can be used for infrastructure, livelihood, and other local development initiatives.

Under the Energy Regulations (ER) 1-94 program of the Department of Energy, host communities of power generation facilities are entitled to financial benefits to fund electrification, livelihood, health, and environmental projects.

These efforts reinforced Alsons Power’s commitment to its brand promise, “We Power with Care,” highlighting the Group’s broader push to integrate sustainability into its operations and uplift the communities it serves.

Founded in 1992, Alsons Power was one of the pioneers in addressing power shortages in Mindanao through its partnership with the National Power Corporation under the Northern Mindanao Power Corporation. Today, the company operates over 460 megawatts of capacity from a mix of renewable and conventional energy sources.

With a growing pipeline of hydro and solar projects, Alsons Power is actively expanding its renewable energy portfolio, aligned with national goals for cleaner, more sustainable power generation.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Make Home Life Smarter and Easier with SM Appliance Center

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Gone are the days when keeping a tidy home meant hours of scrubbing and sweeping. In today’s fast-paced, home-centered lifestyle, smart cleaning solutions are not just a luxury—they’re a lifesaver.

This month, SM Appliance Center makes it easier to say goodbye to stubborn stains, dusty corners, and cluttered countertops. From high-tech robotic vacuums that glide seamlessly across floors to powerful electric scrubbers that tackle grime with ease, your daily home tasks just got a major upgrade. For families concerned with health and hygiene, UV sterilizers are also now within reach—perfect for keeping utensils sanitized and germ-free.

And here’s the best part: SM Appliance is giving you more reasons to revamp your space. With their Buy Big, Save Bigger promotion, you can enjoy major discounts on select appliances this July:

  • Get 3% OFF on purchases from ₱10,000 to ₱29,999.99
  • Get 5% OFF on purchases from ₱30,000 to ₱49,999.99
  • Get 8% OFF on purchases ₱50,000 and above

Whether you’re upgrading your cleaning arsenal or investing in home essentials, now’s the time to do it. Visit SM Appliance Center branches at SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag and bring home innovation—because home works best when smart appliances do the heavy lifting.

Promo runs until July 31, 2025.

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Lead with Confidence in Tank Integrity – Join PetroSync’s API 653 Training and Stay Compliant

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Kuala Lumpur, 16 July 2025 – Ensure your storage tanks meet industry standards. PetroSync’s API 653 Training helps you lead inspection and compliance with confidence.

Have You Ever Wondered If Your Storage Tanks Are Truly Safe?

Imagine walking through your facility one quiet morning, hearing the subtle hum of operations and seeing your storage tanks standing firm — as they always have. But beneath that calm surface, undetected corrosion, settlement, or weld defects could be silently growing. You’re not alone in this concern. Many engineers and plant managers ask themselves: “How do I really know if my storage tanks are still reliable?”

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are often out of sight and, unfortunately, out of mind — until it’s too late. A single failure could lead to catastrophic spills, environmental damage, and millions in losses. That’s why regular, qualified inspections are not just important — they’re essential.

And this is where the API 653 standard comes into play.

API 653: The Inspection Code That Could Save Millions

API 653 is more than a set of guidelines. It’s a powerful inspection standard developed by the American Petroleum Institute specifically for aboveground storage tanks. It covers critical areas such as tank inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction — ensuring structural integrity and compliance with best practices.

Here are a few eye-opening facts:

According to NACE International, corrosion-related failures in storage tanks cost the industry over $7 billion annually.

Improper or missed inspections have been cited in over 80% of major tank-related incidents.

Tanks older than 20 years without API 653-compliant inspections are at significantly higher risk of failure.

Following API 653 ensures your tanks meet safety and environmental standards — but more importantly, it gives you peace of mind.

From Confusion to Confidence: Your API 653 Learning Journey

Reading the API 653 codebook might feel overwhelming. It’s technical, dense, and filled with detailed engineering requirements. But don’t worry — you don’t need to navigate it alone.

Through the API 653 training course, you’ll learn how to:

Evaluate tank shell integrity, roof structures, and bottom plates

Calculate corrosion rates and remaining life

Interpret inspection intervals and repair criteria

Prepare for the API 653 certification exam with real-world case studies

At PetroSync, we understand that every professional learns differently. That’s why our courses are designed with a hands-on approach, combining theory with actual inspection scenarios, so you’re not just memorizing codes — you’re applying them.

Whether you’re a fresh inspector, a reliability engineer, or a seasoned plant manager, this training helps transform confusion into clarity.

Why Professionals Choose PetroSync for Their API 653 Training

There are dozens of training providers out there — so why do industry professionals consistently choose PetroSync?

Here’s what sets us apart:

Expert Instructors: Our trainers are certified professionals with decades of inspection experience.

Interactive Format: Engage with practical case studies, mock exams, and live discussions.

Globally Recognized Certification Prep: Boost your chances of passing the API 653 exam on your first try.

Career Advantage: Many of our alumni have gone on to secure key roles in top energy companies after completing our course.

Joining PetroSync is not just about attending a class — it’s about investing in your professional growth, earning industry respect, and making a real impact in your organization.

About PetroSync Global Internasional

PetroSync was established in Singapore in 2010 and began its expansion into Indonesia in 2013. To this day, PetroSync has become a leading oil and gas training provider, with a participant passing rate as high as 90%.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

XRP Nears $3 — Where’s the Smart Money Going? Wealthy Investors Quietly Choose BTC Miner Cloud Mining

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XRP’s price approaches $3, Bitcoin sets records above $120K, Ethereum climbs past $3,000. Amid the rally, professional capital is quietly flowing into BTC Miner — a cloud mining platform offering up to 6.63% (or more) stable daily USD returns, insulated from crypto volatility.

BTC Miner: the quiet passive wealth engine trusted by serious investors.

How BTC Miner Works

Register at https://btcminer.net

Deposit XRP, BTC, ETH, USDT, etc.

Balance converts to USD; contract activated

Choose 1/3/5/8-day flexible contracts

Daily returns paid in USD, withdraw anytime

Why BTC Miner?

 Up to 6.63% (or higher) daily USD returns

 AIG-insured, Tier-1 bank custody

 USD-denominated income, no price risk

 $500 trial bonus for new users

 Referral rewards: 7% + 2% commissions

 SSL encryption & risk control system

Referral Rewards

Level 1: Earn 7% from direct referrals

Level 2: Earn 2% from referrals’ referrals

Example:

Refer A investing $5,000 → You earn $350

A refers B investing $10,000 → You earn $200

Rewards paid instantly, unlimited scalability.

Client Testimonials (High Allocation)

“I began with $500,000 and scaled up to $3,500,000. Now generating over $620,000 in daily passive income. BTC Miner is our family fund’s primary revenue stream.” — Michael S., Family Office Manager, Germany

“I allocated $1,800,000 for structured returns. Daily payouts arrive automatically — no need to watch the market.” — Lisa M., Entrepreneur, Canada

“The $500 trial gave me confidence. After investing $150,000, I enjoy daily profits and fast withdrawals.” — Mr. Johnson, Private Investor, Florida, USA

Final Takeaway

In a volatile market, BTC Miner offers professionals stable, insured, automated daily crypto income — without trading.

 Learn more: https://btcminer.net

About BTC Miner

Founded in 2009, BTC Miner is a technology-driven company specializing in digital asset services, dedicated to integrating green energy and intelligent technologies into mining operations. The platform has deployed mining farms powered by renewable sources such as solar and wind energy, actively promoting eco-friendly practices and significantly reducing carbon emissions.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

XRP’s Explosive Rally: Where’s the Smart Capital Going? Wealthy Investors Quietly Flock to BTC Miner

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While XRP surges across crypto charts, smart capital isn’t chasing price swings. Instead, high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors are quietly shifting into BTC Miner, a regulated cloud mining platform offering daily USD returns up to 6.63% — and even higher, without market risk.

BTC Miner delivers high-yield income, 100% automated, without the volatility of trading or holding.

 How BTC Miner Generates Wealth

Sign up: https://btcminer.net

Deposit XRP, USDT, BTC, ETH, or other major crypto

Balance is converted to USD, locked into a contract

Choose flexible terms: 1, 3, 5, or 8 days

Daily payouts in USD, withdraw anytime in your chosen crypto

 Why BTC Miner Is Gaining Momentum

Up to 6.63% daily returns in USD — or more

No market risk: stable USD returns, no price volatility

Funds held in Tier-1 global banks

Every investment insured by AIG

$500 welcome trial contract for new users

Up to 7% + 2% referral commissions

Secured with SSL encryption & risk protocols

 2-Level Referral Rewards Explained

BTC Miner’s referral engine offers both breadth and depth:

Level 1: Earn 7% of your direct referrals’ investments

Level 2: Earn 2% from your referrals’ referrals

Example:

You refer A → A invests $1,000 → You earn $70

A refers B → B invests $1,000 → You earn $20

Rewards are paid instantly — ideal for network builders and passive income generators.

 What Clients Say

“I tested the $500 bonus trial, then upgraded to a $500,000 contract. Within days I earned over $150,000 — all auto-credited in USD. Withdrawals are quick and seamless.” — Ryan T., Crypto Entrepreneur, Singapore

“Our family fund allocated $3M to BTC Miner. We now generate over $210,000 daily in profits. The platform is clean and the referral bonuses are substantial.” — Andrea K., Family Office Manager, Frankfurt

“BTC Miner is like a digital money printer. I’ve stopped worrying about the markets — I just collect profits daily.” — Ms. Chen, Private Investor, Malaysia

 Final Word

BTC Miner is becoming the go-to passive income engine for serious capital. With AIG-backed protection, automated USD payouts, and global referral reach, it’s built for high-yield growth without the risk.

Explore now: https://btcminer.net

About BTC Miner

Founded in 2009, BTC Miner is a technology-driven company specializing in digital asset services, dedicated to integrating green energy and intelligent technologies into mining operations. The platform has deployed mining farms powered by renewable sources such as solar and wind energy, actively promoting eco-friendly practices and significantly reducing carbon emissions.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES